Waipara Hills 2012 Waipara Valley Pinot Noir
Region: Waipara Valley, NZ | $22
Waipara Hills winemaker Simon McGeorge sourced fruit for this pinot from the Waipara Valley, not far north of Christchurch. The cool, prolonged season produced a vintage described by viticulturist Jean-Luc Dufour as “an adventure”, with everyone keenly waiting for the grapes to ripen.
These conditions are clearly reflected in the wine, which sits very much in the leaner, tighter part of the pinot spectrum, with ample acidity balancing the spicy, cherry-like flavours.
It’s very much a food red rather than an easy drink on its own, and definitely requires something like a venison pie to show its best.
Visit http://www.waiparahills.co.nz
*John Rozentals is a Charles Sturt University Bachelor of Applied Science (Wine Science) graduate.
Samples for tasting and review should be addressed to John Rozentals, PO Box 3484, Rhodes 2138.
